Ovarian Cysts, The Second Most Common Cysts found in Women
There are a few varieties of ovarian cysts, yet the most common is the functional ovarian cyst. These cysts are made up of clear fluid filled sacs that develop in the ovary as part of the normal development of an egg. These cysts can grow as large as 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) as the ovary prepares to release the egg into the abdomen during ovulation. Cysts form when the ovary fails to release the egg, which enables it to continue to grow larger than normal. The formation of cysts can also occur after an egg has been released as the cyst re-seals itself and swells with fluid. This is known as a luteal cyst.
Ovarian Cysts are most common during the child bearing years and are asymptomatic (without symptoms). They are usually only discovered during a routine pelvic exam. Larger cysts can be problematic and even dangerous as they can twist, rupture and cause abnormal bleeding. They can also be very painful.
Although they are mostly non-cancerous and go away on their own in a few months the symptoms to watch for are:- Lower abdominal pain or ache in the middle of the menstrual
cycle
- Menstrual period delay
- Weight gain
- Unexpected vaginal bleeding
Diagnosing ovarian cysts usually consists of a pelvic ultrasound. If the cysts are not problematic they can be monitored. An ultrasound can show the difference between a fluid filled cyst and a solid growth. A further evaluation can be done by a laparoscopy, where the doctor uses a tiny viewing instrument he inserts through a small incision to check the cysts.
Although most ovarian cysts go away on their own, the birth control pill, which stops the ovulation process, may be recommended by your physician. Birth control pills cannot shrink existing cysts, but can prevent the growth of new ones. Also, GnRHA (Gonadatrophin Releasing Hormone Agonists) is also used to decrease the brain’s production of the hormone that stimulates ovulation.
If a cyst is large or problematic (for example: it causes severe bleeding) it can be surgically removed with a cystectomy or laparotomy.
Other ovarian cysts can be related to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or cancer. In some cases what might seem to be a cyst can actually be growing pelvic tissue, thus it is important to have regular pelvic exams.
Ovarian cysts are primarily caused by the use of fertility drugs, and birth control implants (ex: Norplant). Tubal sterilization (having your tubes tied) after menopause also increases the risk of not only cysts, but ovarian cancer. A previous history of having ovarian cysts is another risk factor. Click here to learn more about Ovarian Cancer
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